Extend Array after replacing HDD's on DL380 G3

[MirceaC]

I want to replacing 3 hdd's 36 gigs with 3 hdd's 72 gigs. The current array is arranged as raid 5. I want to replace the disk to the array and then resize/extend the partition to add the remaining gigs. Anyone with some advice of assurance that this will work without loss data?

[raadek]

You can theoretically do it on-line (almost):
0) backup your data!
1) replace disk by disk waiting each time for array to rebuild
2) expend your RAID 5 using ACU
3) expand your logical drive in 2003 - if not a boot partition then use diskpart.exe, otherwise only 3rd party tools like Partition Magic.

Frankly speaking I would choose off-line way though:
0) backup (i.e. create a full disk image)
1) shut down the server
2) replace all hard drives
3) create new RAID5 array
4) restore
5) eventually use step 3) from previus scenario to extend partition(s)

Rgds.

[Rune J. Winje]

I don't think I would use the 36 GB disks as part of the new array.

1) Backup your data
2) Add new 72 GB disks and make a RAID5
3) Give the new disk a new drive-letter
4) Restore all data including security to the new RAID5
5) Swap disk letters in disk admin.
6) Rip out the old disks (reuse them in another server) and add 1-3 X 72GB disks to expand the RAID set with. (ACU + diskpart)


This positions you better for future migration. (3x36GB in RAID5 = 1 x 72GB disk more + RAID5 has better performance and less overhead with more disks in the RAID set.)

If the server is running cluster - use clusterrecovery.exe to swap drive-letters in 5) since this will also take care of the disk signature which is important for clusters.

Cheers,
Rune